PACK EXPO 2011: E-Portal from Bosch enhances spare parts logistics

September 13, 2011 by Bosch Pharma

Customized for efficient ordering process

Reliable planning with up-to-date online information

Streamlined spare parts logistics improve machine availability

Bosch Packaging Technology expands its services portfolio with the E-Portal, a customized spare parts ordering platform, presented at PACK EXPO 2011 in Las Vegas. The advanced online portal offers manufacturers optimized spare parts logistics and efficient processing of orders and requests by making customized and machine-specific spare parts data readily available. With the E-Portal, up-to-date information on availability, price and delivery is available at any time to enable reliable planning of production processes. Manufacturers also benefit from the option to view all orders and quotes from the last 24 months, which increases transparency during the ordering process and speeds decision making. With an easier spare parts ordering process, packaging machines can be maintained in a timely manner and downtime minimized.

The integrated product search function with predefined options allows the required spare parts to be found quickly and easily including all product details. In addition, personal product searches can be created, enabling manufacturers to save and manage specified search criteria at all times. This contributes to optimized process efficiency, and time and cost savings.

For a more efficient information exchange during the ordering process, the E-Portal offers a memo function. All members of staff involved in ordering spare parts can have access to the E-Portal if, and when, required. Even operators who work closely with the machinery can create a memo with a list of spare parts needed for maintenance or repairs and can update these anytime as required. The spare parts ordering department has access to this earmarked ordering data and can place required parts directly into the basket for enhanced internal communication as well as fast and accurate ordering.

“Increasing competition in the market leads to daily cost and time pressures for manufacturers to ensure they maintain profits,” said Ray Nungesser, Sales Manager at Bosch Packaging Services USA. “The E-Portal helps manufacturers optimize their spare parts planning and reduce planned downtime of the packaging machines during production and maintenance. It also eliminates time-consuming searches for spare parts and improves the ordering process.”

Additional functionalities enable manufacturers to make the process even more customized. For example, by using the Open Catalog Interface (OCI), a format used to connect to purchasing catalog systems, the Bosch E-Portal allows manufacturers to order parts via the company’s own internal system while using the E-Portal catalogue and order information. Furthermore, the Corporate Portal function enables manufacturers to make centralized orders for different facilities.